Choosing a dog is a big decision – you’re welcoming a new member into your family! With so many breeds, finding your perfect canine companion can feel overwhelming. This guide explores the most popular dog breeds, highlighting their unique temperaments, exercise needs, and grooming requirements. Whether you’re looking for a cuddly couch potato, an energetic hiking buddy, or a loyal guardian, we’ll help you navigate the world of dog breeds and find the furry friend who’s the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
Most people choose a dog because a characteristic about the breed resonates with their personality or lifestyle. Others simply want to provide a good home to dogs needing rescue; no particular pedigree or distinction is a prerequisite.
The best family dogs bring joy and fulfillment into our lives; whether they win the popularity contest hardly matters; we just love them!
Regal and hardworking Labrador Retrievers aren’t too worried about being knocked off the pedestal by the charismatic French Bulldog. Frenchies will never make great hunting breeds, and Labs know they don’t fit on our laps despite sometimes trying.
The point is all dogs bring unique traits and personalities into our midst, and we adore them for it. Choosing the right dog breed and understanding their temperament and needs makes for a better relationship.
Here is a comprehensive list of some of the most popular dog breeds.
Most Popular Dog Breeds
Labrador retrievers ruled the AKC (American Kennel Club) top spot for over three decades. Congrats, that’s quite an achievement. Trends come and go, and this past year, the French Bulldog took the prize. Frenchies are a playful breed suitable for urban residents, and therein lies their charm.
Bulldogs, Rottweilers, Beagles, Dachshunds, and Poodles have remained among popular dog breeds.
French Bulldogs
- Classification: Non-sporting Group
- Weight: under 28lbs
- Temperament: Playful, intelligent, easygoing (OMG–that face!)
Frenchies have characterful faces and require little exercise and grooming, making them rise among popular dog breeds. They can experience health issues, and chronic skin problems plague dog breeds with skin folds.
Check our guide on how much does it costs to own a french bulldog.
Labrador Retriever
- Classification: Sporting Group
- Weight: M 65-80lbs F 55-70lbs
- Temperament: Energetic, outgoing, friendly, and smart
Labs are notoriously curious and love their peeps. They have webbed feet and stamina, are mostly obedient, and adore humans. Registration statistics place them #1 as the most popular service dog breed.
Golden Retriever
- Classification: Sporting Group
- Weight: 55-75lbs
- Temperament: High intelligence, friendly, loyal, and devoted.
Goldens are fun-loving, affectionate and slow to mature, and keep their puppy antics. Other dog breeds similar to Goldens are Chesapeake Bay Retrievers which have a blended resemblance to a yellow Labrador Retriever and a Golden Retriever mix.
German Shepherds
- Classification: Herding Group
- Weight: 50-90lbs
- Temperament: Protective, instinctive, intelligent, valiant
Regal shepherds are service dogs willing to work for their owners and instinctively protect. A highly skilled German Shepherd is a valuable resource for police and military action. Rin Tin Tin, a German Shepherd movie star, has a star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame.
Poodle
- Classification: Toy and Non-Sporting Group (3 classes) (formerly a hunting dog)
- Weight: Toy 4-6lbs, Mini 10-15lbs and Standard 40-70lbs
- Temperament: Confident, super smart, trainable, active, agile, loyal
Despite their pedigree that portrays them as a tad snobbish, poodles have a naughty side. Although of German origin, it’s the national dog of France.
Bulldogs
- Classification: Non-sporting Group
- Weight: 40-50lbs
- Temperament: Outgoing, brave, and calm
Bulldogs have a unique take on life and prefer lounging over walking (due to their body design). Many bulldogs need caesarian surgery to deliver pups. The shape of a pup makes it difficult to pass through the birth canal.
Rottweilers
- Classification: Working Group
- Weight: 80-135lbs
- Temperament: Protective, loyal, affectionate
Rottweilers trace their lineage back to Roman times and are very hard-working, and are distant relatives to the Doberman Pinschers.
Beagles
- Classification: Hound Group
- Weight: 20-30 pounds
- Temperament: Inquisitive, happy-go-lucky, and nose focused
Beagles are famous hunting dogs, and their nose sometimes leads them to trouble.
Dachshunds
- Classification: Hound Group
- Weight: 11-32lbs (Miniature or Standard)
- Temperament: Friendly, one-person loyal, playful
Wiener dogs keep busy digging holes and chasing rodents and prefer indoor toilets, and they’re stubborn to a fault.
German Shorthaired Pointers
- Classification: Sporting Group
- Weight: 45-70lbs
- Temperament: Intelligent, eager, outgoing
A German Shorthaired Pointer is an active dog willing to perform, and its hunting instinct is strong. They fit well into active families and like kids.
Most Popular Dog Breed in America
Culture can influence the type of dogs we’re drawn to as a society. It’s a reflection of our lives and lifestyle. However, it doesn’t always make sense. Dog statistics suggest 900 million dogs worldwide, and 85% are unowned.
Most popular breeds, like the beloved Great Dane, the alert Golden Retrievers, and the courageous Beagle, have earned their top dog spot in many hearts.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis
- Classification: Herding Group
- Weight: 28-30lbs
- Temperament: Bright, loving, and engaged
Pembroke Welsh Corgi are royalty and favorites of the Royal Family. Pembroke Welsh Corgis take their herding instinct seriously and are vocal about it and bark. The queen’s dogs continue to live at Windsor.
Australian Shepherds
- Classification: Herding Group
- Weight: 40-65lbs
- Temperament: Smart, hard-working, eager to please, and devoted
The Australian Shepherd is also known as the Blue Heelersor Pastor Dog. This breed is famous for its two-colored eyes.
Yorkshire Terriers
- Classification: Toy Group
- Weight: 7lbs
- Temperament: Cuddly, feisty, and demanding
Yorkies are a mighty breed despite their size, and this retired hunting dog prefers grown-ups. According to an independent survey, Yorkies don’t care what breed is the most registered breed or who is the new top dog. Ruff!
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Classification: Toy Group
- Weight: 13-18lbs
- Temperament: Sweet and loving, elegant, social
Cavalier King Charles retains traits of their hunting past and doesn’t like being alone. They’re a playful breed among popular dog breeds in the UK and USA.
Doberman Pinschers
- Classification: Working Group
- Weight: 60-100lbs
- Temperament: Loyal, protective, intuitive, brave, and loving
Dobbies are in-your-face dogs, and where you go, they follow (no bias;). They are among the most popular dog breeds and still appear regularly on television as the most iconic fierce guard dog. Many Doberman Pinschers work as police or army service dogs.
Boxers
- Classification: Working Group
- Weight: 65-80lbs
- Temperament: Energetic, smart, playful, and affectionate
The Boxer dog is another ancient breed whose soulful/poker faces are depicted in art worldwide and get along with other breeds. Boxers are #16 on the AKC’s most popular dog breeds list. Not bad out of 200 popular dog breeds.
Miniature Schnauzers
- Classification: Terrier Group
- Weight: 11-20lbs
- Temperament: Outgoing, intelligent, eager to please, versatile
Schnauzers are formidable hunters and excellent family watchdogs. They’re popular dog breeds with terrier fans.
Cane Corso
- Classification: Working Group
- Weight: 90-110lbs
- Temperament: Intelligent, loving, powerful
Also known as the Italian Mastiff, this breed dates back to Roman times, when it served as a war dog. First-time dog owners might try a smaller pooch. Cane Corso is now #18 on the most popular dog breeds ranking.
Great Danes
- Classification: Working Group
- Weight: M 140-175lbs F 110-140lbs
- Temperament: Outgoing, gentle, and reliable couch potato
Despite their formidable size, this breed is patient with children and family-orientated. Marmaduke is one of the most famous Great Danes and a loveable comic character who enjoys Scooby snacks. The AKC ranks Danes at #19 according to registration statistics.
Shih Tzu
- Classification: Toy Group
- Weight: 9-16lbs
- Temperament: Friendly, cuddly and loving, fun, and great with children.
Shih Tzu makes great family additions and loves everyone, including cats. For those reasons, they remain among the most popular dog breeds.
Top Dog Breeds
Deciding on the type of dog breed, for example, working, sporting, or toy category, can help narrow down choices and compatibility. Wonder how many dogs are in the UStoday? It’s close to 90 million.
The AKC suggests only 5% of those are purebred dogs, but the Humane Society pegs the number at 25%. The end of the pandemic has seen a surging increase in drop-offs that also affect popular dog breeds.
Siberian Huskies
- Classification: Working Group
- Weight: 35-60lbs
- Temperament: Friendly, sneaky, loyal, and hard-working
Famous for their feats in the Iditarod, Huskies are dependable and opportunists. A Husky is often mistaken for Alaskan Malamutes.
Bernese Mountain Dogs
- Classification: Working Group
- Weight: M 80-115lbs F 70-95lbs
- Temperament: Docile, even-tempered, powerful endurance
Bernese makes a great family addition. Super fun and gentle; bring a brush.
Pomeranians
- Classification: Toy Group
- Weight: 3-7lbs
- Temperament: Curious, fearless, active, and feisty
Poms descend from sleddogs but are vulnerable to attacks from hawks and owls.
Boston Terriers
- Classification: Non-sporting Group
- Weight: 12-25lbs
- Temperament: Outgoing, entertaining (hence the tux), and smart
Boston Terriers are very cuddly despite their fighting history. They’re the official dog of Massachusetts and one of the most popular dog breeds. Sergeant Stubby, of Boston heritage, is the most decorated war dog.
Havanese
- Classification: Toy Group
- Weight: 7-13lbs
- Temperament: Intelligent, fearless, and friendly, natural entertainers
These Cubans were on the brink of extinction but thankfully made a resurgence.
English Springer Spaniels
- Classification: Sporting Group
- Weight: 40-50lbs
- Temperament: Playful, outgoing, and easy to train
This Spaniel loves to swim and brings its owner gifts. One of the best dogs to train but need running rooming.
Shetland Sheepdogs
- Classification: Herding Group
- Weight: 15-25lbs
- Temperament: Active, fun, smart, and eager
Shetlands possess a keen intelligence and a need for mental activity. Grooming is not negotiable.
Brittanys
- Classification: Sporting Group
- Weight: 30-40lbs
- Temperament: Quick-witted, fun and playful, eager to please
Brittanys are energetic and don’t require stern reprimands. Keen scent dogs, they want you to be around 24/7.
Cocker Spaniels
- Classification: Sporting Group
- Weight: 20-30lbs
- Temperament: Smart, gentle, and content
Cockers understand how Labs must feel after being displaced by the Frenchie. They held the same title for 16 years.
Border Collies
- Classification: Herding Group
- Weight: 30-55lbs
- Temperament: Hard working, affectionate, super intelligent, and trainable
Border Collie dog breed works hard, and your wish is their command. Their feats are legendary.
Most Owned Dog Breeds
The most popular dog breed rankings are both good and bad. It’s good because great dog breeds and breeders deserve recognition. Sadly, popularity increases costs, dog theft, and overbreeding in unscrupulous puppy mills and can increase health concerns.
Miniature American Shepherds
- Classification: Herding Group
- Weight: 20-40lbs
- Temperament: Active, versatile, very smart, and sturdy
These mini shepherds have big personalities and demonstrate their loyalty. Beautiful color patterns.
Belgian Malinois
- Classification: Herding Group
- Weight: 61-100lbs
- Temperament: Highly active, brave, smart, and loyal
Mals are working dogs that need mental and physical stimulation and are second to none in work ethic. Belgian Malinois often wear a police or Navy SEALs uniform.
Vizslas
- Classification: Sporting Group
- Weight: M 55-60lbs F 45-55lbs
- Temperament: Athletic, eager, loving, and dedicated
These Hungarian hunting gun dogs are gentle dogs that reach up to 40mph and can maintain that speed. Perfect for people who love to run.
Chihuahuas
- Classification: Toy Group
- Weight: 6lbs
- Temperament: Big on personality, capricious, imposing
Chihuahuas are all about attitude and have it in spades, from charming to fierce. They’re North America’s oldest breed.
Pugs
- Classification: Toy Group
- Weight: 14-18lbs
- Temperament: Loving, cuddly, adaptable
The dogs of emperors, Pugs, are flexible family pets and adapt well. They’re not pugnaciousous. People sometimes confuse Pugs and Boston Bulldogs with French Bulldogs.
Basset Hounds
- Classification: Hound Group
- Weight: 40-80lbs
- Temperament: loyal but independent, sturdy
Bassets have a wicked nose and the endurance to match. They’re calm until there’s work to be done.
Mastiffs
- Classification: Working Group
- Weight: M 160-230lbs F 120-170lbs (not a typo)
- Temperament: Gentle, protective, lovable, weary of strangers
Mastiffs helped domesticate humanity and are our first animal BFFs. There are several prominent Mastiff breeds.
Maltese
- Classification: Toy Group
- Weight: 7lbs
- Temperament: Fearless, affectionate, regal, and charismatic
Maltese are another old breed who caught the attention of medieval crusaders. They may look dainty but are brave.
Collies
- Classification: Herding Group
- Weight: M 60-75lbs F 50-65lbs
- Temperament: Devoted, athletic, smart, protective
A pop culture icon, Collies dominated the most popular dog breed category for generations.
English Cocker Spaniels
- Classification: Sporting Group
- Weight: 26-34lbs
- Temperament: Curious, willful, eager to please, charisma
The English Cocker Spaniel dog breed is notorious for its ability to retrieve and personality.
Least Owned Dog Breeds
There’s an ongoing war between the most popular dog breeds and rare ones, yet they still attract curious owners. These are just some of those unique breeds, and dozens more exist.
English Foxhounds
- Classification: Hound Group
- Weight: 60-75lbs
- Temperament: Dedicated, gentle, calm, obstinate
English Foxhounds are postcard-hunting dogs depicted in art throughout history. This breed is seldom a pet but a dedicated pack member that performs their task. Though a registered breed, they don’t rank on the most popular dog breeds list. They come in at #199, so Labs have nothing to worry about.
Norwegian Lundehunds
- Classification: Sporting Group
- Weight: M15-18lbs F 12-15lbs
- Temperament: Friendly and outgoing, athletic
Lundehunds are unique dogs with six toes and pads, extremely flexible necks, and folding ears. They resemble the Spitz breed.
Sloughis
- Classification: Hound Group
- Weight: 35-50lbs
- Temperament: Loving with owners, reserved with strangers, keen, intelligent
Sloughis are a rare but ancient breed and a classic sighthound from Northern Africa.
American Foxhounds
- Classification: Hound Group
- Weight: M 65-70lbs F 60-65lbs
- Temperament: Good-natured, dedicated to tasks, athletic, prone to depression
American Foxhounds are keen hunters built for endurance and speed. They can become destructive if their physical and mental stimulation needs aren’t met.
Belgian Laekenois
- Classification: Herding Group
- Weight: 55-65lbs
- Temperament: Intelligent, protective, and loving with family, keen to please
Belgian Laekenois is one of four native breeds in Belgium. They resemble a Sheperd but have a wiry-curly coat that needs grooming.
FAQ’s
Most commonly asked questions about the most popular dog breeds.
What Is the Most Popular Dog Breed?
The French Bulldog unseated the resounding top-seated champion, the genuine Labrador Retriever, America’s All-Time Favorite Dog Breed, in 2023. The AKC tracks 200 of the most popular dog breeds in the purebred category. It doesn’t track mixed or designer breeds.
What Are the Most Common Types of Dogs?
In the USA, Frenchies, Labs, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Poodles, Rottweilers, Dachshunds, Bulldogs, Beagles, and German Shorthaired Pointers are in the top spot of most popular dog breeds.
What Is the Most Commonly Owned Dog Breed?
According to the AKC, the French Bulldog is the most popular breed in the country, and the Labrador Retriever moved into second place. However, the AKC only ranks purebred and registered dog breeds.This list excludes popular designer groups like the Mini Labradoodle and other mixed breeds. Don’t forget many Americans don’t care about the breed and adopt Heinz57 breeds.
Final Thought
An astonishing 25% of dogs in shelters are purebreds–just saying. Always be leery of buying from a pet store, as many dogs come from puppy mills and have horrible breeding and care conditions they must endure before the scrubbed and polished, and sold. We’ve barely scratched the surface; there are 155 more purebreds that didn’t make this list.
Many other popular dog breeds, like the American bully dog breeds, are on America’s most wanted list for other reasons.
Pet owners face many considerations before committing to a purebred or mixed-breed dog. The number one thing that should matter about the most popular dog breeds is that they are loved and cared for.
Choosing the right dog breed is a deeply personal journey. While popularity offers insights into temperament and common traits, remember that individual dogs within a breed can vary widely. Consider your lifestyle, living space, and experience level when making your decision. Research thoroughly, meet potential pups, and prioritize responsible breeders or shelters. Ultimately, the “perfect” canine companion is the one whose personality and needs best align with your own, leading to a loving and fulfilling partnership for years to come.